Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021
544. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons enrolled in the activation and family support programme; and the amount of funding allocated to the scheme per annum. [26028/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Activation and Family Support Programme (AFSP) enables my Department to assist local organisations and agencies to implement projects addressing the needs of recipients of welfare payments and their families, to provide progression routes into education, training and employment.
The application of the funding is largely responsive to demand identified by local organisations who apply for funding for a project via my Department’s activation services. The programme is designed to fund projects that have the capacity to result in positive changes in the circumstances of our customers and their families. Funding applications come from a wide range of organisations including family resource centres, partnerships, community development companies and advocacy groups.
Approximately 240 learners attended courses co-funded by the programme in 2020 with an approximate expenditure of €162,000.
A budget of €600,000 is provided for this programme in 2021. A number of courses are currently approved or underway.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the deputy.
